The Collie Senior High School 2017 Anzac Tour Group’s achievements were formally recognised by the Shire of Collie and community groups on Tuesday.
Shire, Collie-Cardiff RSL and CSHS representatives gathered for a presentation ceremony at the shire’s Throssell Street premises.
Speeches were delivered by Anzac Tour Group leader Ed Croft and Year 11 students Ashleigh Chapman and Olivia Roberts.
Chapman said the tour group raised $145,000 for the journey through fundraising efforts such as raffles, cake stalls, parking duties at Collie Motorplex and farmland jobs.
She said the group learned more about conflicts in Vietnam and Cambodia.
CSHS 2017 Anzac Tour photo books were given to high school, shire, Collie Miners Welfare Board and RSL representatives.
The group praised Anzac Tour fundraising coordinator Toni Flanagan and RSL representative Kevin Dyer.
Mr Croft thanked the community for supporting the tour and investing in Collie’s youth.
He noted the students made for great ambassadors and embodied the town’s community spirit.
Mr Croft also thanked the combined group of students, parents and teachers who went on the trip.
CSHS principal Dale Miller acknowledged the community for its continued support of the school’s Anzac tours.
Shire of Collie president Wayne Sanford said it was a joy to talk to the students and listen to their tour stories.
Mr Sanford said he was pleased the shire could acknowledge the school and community’s efforts in sending the group overseas.
He said the tour provided students with a greater understanding of Australian history and culture.
In his address, he discussed how sustainable communities would not exist without the community groups.
The CSHS Anzac tours have been going since 2006.
